About This Event
The senior iQFOiL European Championships come to Portimão for a week of elite Olympic-class windsurfing on the Algarve coast.
iQFOiL European Championships 2026
Portimão hosts the iQFOiL European Championships from 16–23 May 2026, bringing elite Olympic-class windsurfing to the Algarve coast.
What Is iQFOiL?
iQFOiL is the Olympic windsurfing class — a high-speed foiling discipline where athletes race on hydrofoil boards at speeds up to 35+ knots. It replaced traditional windsurfing as the Olympic class and debuted at the Paris 2024 Games.
What to Expect
- Top European windsurfers competing on the waters off Praia da Rocha
- Free spectating from the beach and clifftops
- A full week of racing with elimination rounds and finals
- The Algarve's consistent spring winds make Portimão an ideal venue
Why Portimão?
Portimão has become a go-to destination for international sailing and windsurfing events. The combination of reliable Atlantic winds, warm spring weather, and excellent coastal infrastructure makes it a favourite among race organisers.
Practical Info
- Dates: 16–23 May 2026
- Location: Portimão (Praia da Rocha area)
- Free to watch from the beach
Event Details
Venue Location
Clube Naval de Portimão
More Upcoming Events
Don't miss these upcoming activities
Faro Rally 2026 — International Motorcycle Rally
The 41st Faro Rally brings thousands of motorcyclists from across Europe to the Algarve for four days of riding, music, and motor culture. One of Iberia's biggest and most established motorcycle gatherings.
Silves Medieval Fair 2026 — Feira Medieval de Silves
Silves transforms into a medieval city for nine days of historical reenactments, jousts, Arabic-themed gastronomy, traditional music, and a costumed parade. One of Portugal's biggest and most atmospheric medieval fairs, set against the backdrop of Silves Castle.
Lagoa Wine Show 2026
Five days celebrating Algarve and Portuguese wines in Lagoa — the unofficial wine capital of the Algarve. Tastings, masterclasses, food pairings, and a festival village in the heart of one of the region's most distinctive wine areas.